Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan is a 2019 Australian war film directed by Kriv Stenders and written by Stuart Beattie, based on the true story of the Battle of Long Tan in August 1966 during the Vietnam War. The movie stars Travis Fimmel as Major Harry Smith, alongside Luke Bracey, Daniel Webber, and Richard Roxburgh.
The film takes place during the Vietnam War, where a company of 108 Australian and New Zealand soldiers are tasked with locating and destroying a Viet Cong stronghold in a rubber plantation called Long Tan. However, the mission soon becomes a desperate struggle for survival as the soldiers find themselves surrounded and outnumbered by a force of 2,500 North Vietnamese soldiers.
As the battle rages on for three and a half hours, the soldiers face overwhelming odds and mounting casualties. With their ammunition running low, and air support unable to reach them due to bad weather, the soldiers must rely on their training, courage, and determination to hold off the enemy and survive the battle.
The film depicts the fierce fighting that took place during the Battle of Long Tan, as well as the struggles and sacrifices that the soldiers faced during the Vietnam War. It also explores the camaraderie and bonds that are formed between the soldiers in the heat of battle, as they come together to fight for each other and their country.
Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan received positive reviews for its depiction of the battle and the soldiers involved, as well as for its emotional impact and respect for historical accuracy. It was nominated for several awards in Australia, including Best Film and Best Director at the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards.